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Monday, April 20, 2009

THE RETURN OF THE SLEEVE

So why are brides going crazy as of late baring their arms like never before? I have a theory. Until lately, bridal fashion was a very restricted zone. With so many rules to follow, modesty was the most paramount. Covering one's self up as much as possible was deriguer, a throwback to 19th century propriety when brides symbolized purity and virginity. Fast forward to the 21st century and brides are celebrating a fashion liberation. Finally it's okay to be a bride and sexy, baring not only arms but decolletage and back as well as showing off some leg.

So many years in fashion, I know those much missed sleeves will return. Once they make their comeback it will be with a highly creative edge. From a designer’s point of view, sleeves can be one of the most creative components on a gown. For me, a well-designed sleeve is a work of art; it combines fabric and adornment into the overall image of the gown. White Chocolate Label by Scott Corridan

Justin Alexander CoutureBesides looking beautiful, the right sleeves can add bodice appeal as well as keep your skirt or sloping shoulders in proportion. Although not foremost, keeping arms warm could be another option for wearing sleeves. Once upon a time etiquette dictated the length sleeve you could wear during winter months or time of day you got married. Fortunately these restrictions were lifted long ago. Nowadays, you can go for long sleeves in summer, short caps in winter if that’s your desire. Be realistic though. Just make sure you have a decent wrap or stole in New York for your December wedding. As for long sleeves next July in Palm Springs, go for them. Ever since Vera Wang popularized the detachable sleeve that ties and unties from your gown’s bodice, brides still opt for them.

The ever youthful and charming puffed sleeve. This version of balloned tulle by Christos is attached to an ivory lace A-line.Pronovias

Jenny PackhamWhen choosing a sleeve, think of them in terms having their very own silhouette within the outline of your gown as a whole. The sleeves below are a fine example: 3/4 legnth Chantilly lace.Y&Kei

12 comments:

Oh good. I've been waiting for this. Dying to see other comments. Oscar de la Renta also does some killer sleeves. Maybe the affordable people will get the idea. For now it's actually the LDS brides who have the sleeve thing figured out:).

i knew LPC would love this post! ha! i LOVE sleeves, when done well, on a bridal gown!! the Justin Alexander Couture & White Chocolate Label by Scott Corridan are stunning and if i could have gotten married in the proper setting, i would have worn either one in an instant! great post, lady...(are there enough !! in my comment?). so romantic, so grace kelly--so what brides dream to be.

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I initially created this space for my clients. Eventually brides looking for that touch of wow found their way here. Draping and playing with fabric started some twenty years back when I did a three-year stint as a bridal fabrics buyer. After that I opened Bridal Alternatives, a custom design studio and ever since have had the opportunity of working with brides who want that extraordinary one-of-a-kind dress. I'm in love with fashion history and re-invention of the past.
Other connections to fashion? I’ve been a columnist for San Francisco Art and Fashion News and have a weekly fashion buzz on One Wed Blog. I founded The Design Project of San Francisco, a networking organization of fashion professionals collaborating their skills and talents on projects. I’m currently working on a book called—you guessed it—'Bride Chic', all about that white gown and very special designer/client relationship. I live with my husband Edgar and Chihuahua Piccalina in Marin County California.
Want to see more of what I do? Check out my site at www.amyjotatum.com or call me 415.336.3480

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Please note some images on Bride Chic are photos from previous shoots and editorials of my collection pieces. Since I do admire other designers work, I’ve also added from online sources to share a different perspective. There’s no profit from the display of these photos -- they are being shown for the informational and educational benefit of brides and aficionados of bridal fashion. I always list my source, providing a link back. If you feel an image here violates your intellectual property and/or copyrights, please email your concerns to me (amyjotatum@gmail.com) and I will gladly remove the photos in question. Thank you!

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